The Bentley Twins

In the world of high school athletics, talent and hard work often go hand in hand. Few embody this combination better than Jelani and Ari Bentley, twin brothers attending Tavares High School (THS). 

These young men separated by just two minutes at birth (Jelani arrived first) epitomize what it means to be student/athletes.

Academically, the Bentley twins are nothing short of exceptional. Both maintain a stellar 4.0 GPA, demonstrating a commitment to their studies that rivals their dedication to sports. 

“Studies are very important to us. They always have been,” Jelani says. “We both want to play college football, but we envision life beyond that, as well. We think about entrepreneurship, our future outside of sports and other things.”

While football is their primary sport, the Bentleys are multi-sport athletes, also competing in wrestling, weightlifting and track & field at THS. 

“We got into wrestling a few years ago and we loved it,” Ari says. “Wrestling at Tavares High is a lot of fun, and we enjoy it. It’s man against man or woman against woman. It’s a pure sport and among the hardest things you’ll ever do. Once you have done wrestling there’s literally nothing you can’t do.” 

Their success on the mat continues to grow, as evidenced at this year’s FHSAA State Championships. Both finished fifth.

The twins credit their strong work ethic to their parents, Richard and Bree Bentley. 

“Our father and mother really helped us become who we are today,” Jelani says. “They mean everything to us.”

They also look up to their older sister, Raina Bentley, who is a senior at THS and leads the brass section of the school’s Big Red Marching Band. She will also be graduating Magna Cum Laude. 

“She likes to take charge, she’s a great trumpet player and is a true leader,” Ari says.

Their father, Richard, grew up in a tough area of Fort Lauderdale but sought a better life for himself, prompting him to move away.
He met Bree in 2003. The couple spent many years in the Orlando area but decided to move to Tavares in 2015 to benefit their children. The move has been a very positive one. 

“We love Lake County and everything it provides,” Bree says. “This is a great place to raise a family.”

On the football field, both Ari and Jelani have emerged as defensive standouts for the Tavares Bulldogs. Ari is coming off a phenomenal season with 89 total tackles, including 12 tackles for loss and two fumble recoveries. Jelani contributed significantly as well, racking up 68 tackles, seven tackles for loss, a blocked punt and one fumble recovery. Combined, the twins, who have put on a ton of muscle mass since last year, ‘have racked up a notable 157 total tackles, proving they are straight up ballers. 

“We are competing in weightlifting this year and that’s been really good for us as we have grown mentally and physically,” Jelani says. That will translate well on the football field as the twins approach their junior year. 

“We got into playing defense because it’s a different mindset,” Ari says. “The fun thing about playing defense is you don’t know what the opposing team is setting up, so you have to try and figure it out. Working together with our teammates on defense, making stops and getting to level opposing players is a fun part of the game we enjoy.”

Jelani also shares a philosophy that has guided him through athletic and academic challenges: “Don’t give up on yourself. It’s not all about you. Nobody can stop you but you. You just have to get up every day, appreciate what you have and try to get better at something. Even if it’s not a sport—maybe it’s math or science—learning something every day goes a long way.”

The Bentley twins have played a key role in the resurgence of Tavares High’s football program. After finishing their freshman season with a .500 record, they helped lead the Bulldogs to their first winning record since 2021. 

“We are blessed to be a part of a program like this,” Jelani says. “It meant a lot to us to be part of the turnaround especially with great teammates and sharing that success as a team. We love the guys in the locker room, our coaches and being a part of this has been special.”

With two more years left in their high school careers, the Bentley twins have their sights set on continuing their athletic and academic merit. They aspire to play college football but are also looking ahead to life beyond the game, with interests in business and entrepreneurship.

“We got a great team coming back for the 2025 season in a few months,” Ari says. “I can’t wait to get back at it and continue to build upon the success of last year.” 

Photos: Nicole Hamel